Don't Call Me Ishmael

As a teacher, this is part of the required reading for my year 9 class. I've listened to it on audio tape and also read it and it cracks me up every time. The story is fast paced and relevant, and the characters well drawn. However, as an Australian the jargon and use of slang also appeal to me. I would worry that American readers might miss some of the culturally specific references ('Wussy-crap' being one). Don't let that stop you giving it a go though. I would recommend this book for young teenage boys, as it deals with issues that relate to them. If they don't understand the language, tell them to email an Australian ... that should sort it all out!

What a fun book! This has to be, hands down, one of the most entertaining books I've read in a long time. It's a first-person account of the trials and tribulations of a year 9 boy, Ishmael Leseur, and his band of very colourful friends ("Razza" Zorzotto, Ignatius Prindabel, Bill Kingsley, James Scobie) and not-so-friends (Barry Bagsley and company). Through the school year, they have to face debating debacles, girls, and bugs...lots of bugs... The writing is excellent and the dialogue is laugh-out-loud hilarious in a lot of places. It's the sort of story that just pulls you along, and I found the book nearly impossible to put down. I'd give this book more than 5 stars if I could...a terrific read with great characters and fabulous dialogue. I just wish my son was old enough to enjoy this book with me!!!